Today I leave FDA with a full heart. It has been an honor to be a part of this agency and to work with such amazing, mission-driven and dedicated people. Team OMA, thanks for all you do! For those who followed me, follow FDA’s press office at @FDAMedia for the latest from FDA pic.twitter.com/odfdf82t5q

I’m joined by the entire FDA press office in mourning the loss of Robert Pear of @nytimes. Robert’s contributions are countless and we will miss working with him. Our thoughts are with his family and his colleagues at NYT.

Thank you @ScottGottliebMD, for your very kind words and all of your support. It has been an absolute honor to be a part of the FDA and to work with such amazing and dedicated people - especially the OMA press and social media team!

I’m pleased to announce the new FDA website is LIVE! The site is the gateway to info the public needs to make informed decisions quickly, on topics ranging from recalls to important safety alerts. Check it out at fda.gov. #NewFDAgovpic.twitter.com/2fgyE85YME

Flagging: New study data shows a higher incidence of stroke or death when the Wingspan Stent System is used outside of FDA-approved indications for use. FDA reminds health care professionals to consider patient selection carefully. go.usa.gov/xmk4Fpic.twitter.com/7aGW467JVw

.@US_FDA has been advancing policies to promote development of gene therapy. To that end, we appreciate the chance to work with @NIH to ensure govt is taking steps to support safe innovation while reducing duplicative and burdensome oversight of products. go.usa.gov/xmkrn

In our latest #FDAVoices, read how FDA launched a network of state-based Rapid Response Teams that operate by the principles of the Incident Command System/National Incident Management System to respond to human and animal food emergencies. go.usa.gov/xmk3ypic.twitter.com/azKGFkdWi4

FDA remains committed to addressing the national opioid crisis on all fronts, and one of many efforts being made is our launch today of a new education campaign to help Americans understand important role they play in disposing of unused opioids. go.usa.gov/xmkxVpic.twitter.com/1lPKNVNa03

Flagging for reporters: New FDA campaign, “Remove the Risk,” to help Americans understand the important role they play in removing & properly disposing of unused prescription opioids from their homes. go.usa.gov/xmkxVpic.twitter.com/m3ZdA7uIYA

The final guidance on non-clinical bench performance testing — done before a device is used in patients to identify mechanical/design flaws & test safety/endurance — describes the content/format of info to support a premarket submission. go.usa.gov/xmKJJ

The guidance on ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (a plastic) discusses the types of information device manufacturers should include in premarket submissions to demonstrate the material is safe and appropriate for use in their device. go.usa.gov/xmKS3

Devices Alert: Today, FDA published two final guidances to help manufacturers demonstrate a medical device’s safety and performance: 1) final guidance on non-clinical bench testing 2) final guidance on the use of a specific material commonly used in orthopedic devices. pic.twitter.com/tlfG89rAnw

Flagging for reporters: FDA issued final guidance today to clarify for device manufacturers how to mark convenience kits with a unique device identifier. These kits contain 2 or more devices packaged together. go.usa.gov/xmKSxpic.twitter.com/0DfVgH7e5Y

FDA is advising consumers to not eat the recalled product & to consult their healthcare provider if they suspect that they have developed symptoms that resemble a Salmonella infection. They should also report their illness to FDA. Learn about Salmonella: go.usa.gov/xmKZVpic.twitter.com/wsk4CwwdF5

#FDA is continuing to inspect & investigate the Caito Foods processing facility and also continuing a traceback investigation to identify the specific source of these melons. Updates will continue to be provided.

UPDATE: Today, @CDCgov is reporting 117 people have become ill from a multi-state outbreak, previously announced by @US_FDA & CDC, of Salmonella Carrau infections likely linked to pre-cut melons distributed by Caito Foods. A recall was issued. Learn more: go.usa.gov/xmKZ8

FDA detected Listeria monocytogenes in 19 of the facilities; however, only 1 of them was found to have the pathogen on a food-contact surface. Salmonella was detected in 1 facility. @FrankYiannasFDA discusses how FDA worked w/ facilities to improve safety: go.usa.gov/xmK2b